About Prolactin
Prolactin is a peptide hormone primarily produced by the anterior pituitary gland. It is best known for its role in enabling mammals, usually females, to produce milk; however, it also has hundreds of other functions, including roles in metabolism, regulation of the immune system, and development of the pancreas.
Reference Values
Optimal Range
4.0 - 15.0 ng/mL
Women's Optimal Range
4.8 - 23.0 ng/mL
Elite Value
Not specified
Health Implications
{'high': 'Elevated levels may indicate prolactinoma, hypothyroidism, or other hormonal imbalances affecting reproductive health.', 'low': 'Low levels may be associated with pituitary gland dysfunction or certain medications, potentially impacting menstrual cycles and fertility.'}
Symptoms
High
May include irregular menstrual cycles, unexplained weight gain, tenderness in the breast, headaches, and visual disturbances.
Low
Can include fatigue, low libido, depression, weakness, and changes in mood.
Lifestyle Factors
Specimen Type
Testing Methods
Also Known As
Scientific Sources
- Melmed, S., 2020. Prolactin and pituitary tumors. The Journal of Clinical Investigation, 130(9), pp. 4013-4022.
- Molitch, M.E., 2019. Diagnosis and treatment of prolactinomas. Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinics of North America, 48(3), pp. 609-625.
- Melmed, S., 2022. Prolactin excess and deficiency. The New England Journal of Medicine, 387(1), pp. 55-65.
- Fleseriu, M., Hoffman, A.R., Katznelson, L., 2019. American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and American College of Endocrinology guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of acromegaly. Endocrine Practice, 25(10), pp. 1191-1237.
- Melmed, S., 2021. Pathogenesis of pituitary tumors. Nature Reviews Endocrinology, 17(5), pp. 257-271.